Smith signs deal at Wakefield Wildcats

Mark Berry

Tim Smith has signed for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats on a permanent basis for 2015 after signing a one-year contract.

The influential scrum-half left the club towards the end of 2013 amidst financial troubles at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium but rejoined from Salford Red Devils on loan in June 2014, playing a pivotal role in a five-game unbeaten run at the start of James Webster’s tenure that steered Trinity to Super League safety.

Smith contributed 13 try assists and two tries in his 12-game loan spell, including three try assists in a memorable win over Warrington Wolves at the Halliwell Jones Stadium as Trinity threatened a late surge for the play-off places.

The 29-year old former Wigan and Parramatta Eels man has made 89 Super League appearances in all and was the Wildcats Player of the Year during his first season in with the club in 2012.

“It was an easy decision, I think people can see I’m happy at Wakefield and enjoy everything about the club,” said Smith.

“The players are a great bunch to play with and the coaching staff are easy to get along with. They’ve set targets that we’re confident we can make.

“I think we will have a really good, balanced squad and the coaching staff have recruited well. If we keep our squad fit we’ve as much chance as anyone else to make the top eight. It will be tough but we go into the year full of optimism.”

“I’m obviously delighted that Tim will be playing for us in 2015,” said Webster.

“Everyone who has followed the club for the past three years will have seen the influence that Tim has on the team. Tim’s experience and direction will be priceless in the teams aim of yet again improving next season.”